OH HB533

Establishes new criminal penalties for filing false or fraudulent claims with the state, including presenting false claims for payment, making false records to obtain state funds, and conspiring to defraud the state.

Creates civil liability with penalties of $5,000-$10,000 per false claim plus three times actual damages, or reduced penalties of two times damages if the violator reports the violation to the attorney general within 30 days.

Authorizes private citizens to bring civil actions on behalf of the state, with the state able to intervene within 60 days; allows whistleblowers to recover 15-25% of proceeds if state proceeds with the action, or 25-30% if state declines.

Grants the attorney general authority to issue civil investigative demands requiring production of documents, written interrogatory responses, or oral testimony related to suspected violations.

Protects employees from retaliation for reporting violations or participating in investigations, providing remedies including reinstatement, double back pay, and attorney's fees.